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biography from Portrait & Biographical Album of Mahaska Co., Iowa, 1887
JAMES A. SPRAGUE, possessor of a finely cultivated and valuable farm in Jefferson Township, is a native of the Buckeye State, born in Washington County, Jan. 4, 1856. He is the son of Joseph and Henrietta (Laughrey) Sprague, who were also natives of Ohio. His father died Aug. 25, 1885. His mother is still living, and resides with a daughter in Nebraska. The subject of this sketch came to Iowa in 1879, located in Oskaloosa, and engaged for a time in the music business. He then removed to Albia, Monroe County, purchased property, and remained there one year, thence went to Indianola, and engaged in the music business there for one year. Afterward he returned to Mahaska County, and purchased his present farm of 160 acres. Mr. Sprague was united in marriage with Miss Lizzie M. Moore, Dec. 1, 1880. Mrs. S. is a daughter of Samson and Margaret Moore, who were natives of Ireland. By this marriage there has been one child, Ernest J., born March 6, 1882. Mr. Sprague is an active intelligent Republican, giving his entire political influence to the support of his party, and is a member of the Masonic fraternity. His home farm is a fine body of land, well cultivated, and with the best class of improvements. In addition to general farming he is making a specialty of breeding Norman horses, and raising thoroughbred Short-horn cattle. His collection of animals embraces some of the best grades in the county, and while he gives particular attention to purity of blood and character of pedigree, he shows by the care bestowed upon his herd that he thoroughly understands his business. In this as in other departments of the farm his intelligence and ability are duly recognized, and, being straightforward in his business methods, and prompt to meet his obligations, he enjoys the confidence of his many friends and associates in a marked degree.
Portrait & Biographical Album of Mahaska Co., Iowa, 1887
Mahaska County, Iowa Genealogy